Rain warnings issued for southeast Iceland and the highlands

Yellow weather warnings for heavy rain took effect at 3 a.m. in southeast Iceland and the central highlands and will remain in force until 3 p.m. Wednesday, mbl.is reported.

In southeast Iceland, runoff and water levels in rivers and streams are expected to rise, increasing the risk of flooding and landslides. The conditions could cause damage and disrupt transport, while also placing extra strain on drainage systems. People are advised to take care and check drains to help prevent water damage.

Rain is expected to be considerable or heavy in the southern part of the central highlands. Rising runoff and water levels could increase the risk of floods, landslides and accidents. People are urged to exercise caution, particularly near rivers and fords.

Winds of 18 to 23 metres per second are forecast beneath Eyjafjöll and in Öræfi during the early morning. Southerly winds of 15 to 23 metres per second are also expected in eastern Iceland during the first part of Thursday. Localised gusts could be dangerous for vehicles vulnerable to strong winds.

Across the country, easterly winds of 10 to 18 metres per second are forecast, reaching 18 to 23 metres per second for a time in the far south early in the morning. Rain is expected in many areas, with heavy precipitation in the southeast. Winds are forecast to ease and skies to clear in many places late in the afternoon, before winds strengthen and precipitation increases again in the evening.

On Thursday, southerly and southeasterly winds of 13 to 18 metres per second are expected, reaching 18 to 23 metres per second in the east through much of the day. Winds and precipitation are forecast to ease Thursday evening. Temperatures will range from 7 to 15 degrees, with the highest temperatures in the north.